Veratric acid (3,4-Dimethoxybenzoic acid)

Veratric acid (3,4-Dimethoxybenzoic acid) is an orally active phenolic compound derived from vegetables and fruits, has antioxidant[1] and anti-inflammatory activities[3]. Veratric acid also acts as a protective agent against hypertension-associated cardiovascular remodelling[2]. Veratric acid reduces upregulated COX-2 expression, and levels of PGE2, IL-6 after UVB irradiation[3].

Veratric acid (100, 200 μM) suppresses iNOS expression in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Veratric acid (200 μM) inhibits LPS-induced activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway, HAT activation and HDAC3 expression in RAW264.7 cells[1].Veratric Acid (10-100 μg/mL) has anti-inflammatory activity, protects HaCaT cells against UVB-mediated phototoxicity, increases S-phase cells, and prevents UVB-mediated apoptosis[3]. Veratric acid reduces upregulated COX-2 expression, and levels of PGE2, IL-6 after UVB irradiation[3].

Veratric acid (40 mg/kg, p.o., b.w.) significantly promotes ventricular function, reduces lipid peroxidation and increases antioxidants in l-NAME-induced hypertensive rats[2].

[1]. Choi WS, et al. Veratric acid inhibits iNOS expression through the regulation of PI3K activation and histone acetylation in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Int J Mol Med. 2015 Jan;35(1):202-10. [2]. Saravanakumar M, et al. Oral administration of veratric acid, a constituent of vegetables and fruits, prevents cardiovascular remodelling in hypertensive rats: a functional evaluation. Br J Nutr. 2015 Nov 14;114(9):1385-94. [3]. Shin SW, et al. Antagonist effects of veratric acid against UVB-induced cell damages. Molecules. 2013 May 10;18(5):5405-19.